What To Do.

“What can I do?” is a question I am often asked these days.  

People are, understandably, devastated by the actions of the MAGA regime currently executing a hostile takeover of our federal government.  Stopping it will take dedicated and collective action.  Here are some ways—both large and seemingly small—you might get involved.

Stand Up For [Fill in the Blank]!

So much of what we hold dear is under attack right now.  It can be overwhelming to know where to direct your energy.  I suggest picking whichever issue is closest to your heart and focusing on that.

For me it’s [Energy Justice]!

I am passionate about addressing the climate crises we face.  In this past legislative session, energy issues emerged as a major topic.  I continued to lead on making sure we prioritize affordable, clean energy in Maryland and throughout the region.  We passed several pieces of key legislation to reign in utility costs, speed up our transition to clean energy, and improve the oversight and accountability of PJM, our regional transmission organization.

I have also been leading efforts to protect the federal program, LIHEAP (Low-

Income Home Energy Assistance Program).  This vital program provides financial assistance to low-income individuals to pay their heating and air conditioning bills.  In 2024, almost 100,000 Marylanders received benefits through the program.

Yet, on April 1st, all the federal staff who oversee the program were fired and federal funds stopped.  Check out footage of the April 23rd press conference in support of this program (my remarks begin at about 17:00).  

How can you help?  Please share this video on your social media.  It explains the program and the impact of the cuts.  Chesapeake Climate Action Network is also conducting a petition drive.  Add your name to stand up for energy justice!

Demand Due Process and the Rule of Law!

Abducting our neighbors and disappearing them without a trial is unacceptable and un-American.  The lack of due process and the callous disregard for people like Kilmar Abrego Garcia shows our government is being run by bullies.  Speak out against such affronts to American values.  You can do so by joining one of the many May 1st Marches to demand justice.  There have also been daily protests at El Salvador’s consulate in downtown Silver Spring.

Volunteer With Me!

Want to connect with neighbors and make a difference directly in our community?  Consider volunteering with my campaign.  

This summer I will be canvassing in D20 neighborhoods regularly.  I find going door-to-door is a great way to check in on people who might need help, particularly those affected by recent federal government actions.  

Conversations at people’s doors alert me to critical issues in the community and have led directly to me developing legislation to address them.  Canvassing is a crucial element of my community outreach. This campaign season we will also use our door-to-door canvassing to educate and organize people to take action!

You can also help by staffing information tables at local events and marching with me in Takoma Park’s Fourth of July parade!

*Are you Tech-Savvy?  I also need an extra special volunteer who can help with our digital presence and campaign database.  This work has been skillfully carried out by the invaluable Mark Paster for the past seven(!) years.  He has decided to re-focus his considerable efforts with Silver Spring Progressive Action, but has graciously offered to help train new volunteers in all things tech-related for Friends of Lorig Charkoudian.

Sign up to volunteer with me here.  Want more information?  Email Jill Feasley, my Campaign Manager, at Jill@Lorig.us.

Buy Local!

For the past 19 years, Crossroads Community Food Network has made sure fresh, healthy food is available to everyone in our community, while building economic opportunity, a more sustainable food system, and lots of joy!  Check out its Farmers Market located at University Blvd. East and Anne St. (one block west of N.H. Ave.) every Wednesday from 10:30 am - 2:30 pm through November!  

We are lucky to also have several other wonderful Farmers Markets in our area. The Montgomery County Food Council has also developed a Food Assistance Resource Directory, which can help you find local food banks and other providers of food assistance.

Eat Spaghetti!

Nonprofits need our support, too.  There are so many terrific organizations supporting folks most in need in our area.  Help them by volunteering or making a financial contribution.

For example, Meals on Wheels of Takoma Park/Silver Spring will take a devastating hitif federal funding is eliminated. Show your support by attending their2nd Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Auctionon Wednesday, May 7th, from 5:00 - 7:30 pm.  More detailshere.

Fund the Ones You Love!  

If you are proud of your elected officials, support them with more than just your vote.  If you think I am doing an outstanding job representing you and the issues that matter most to you, please save the date for my spring fundraiser: Wednesday, June 11th.  I am raising funds for my reelection campaign and to offer stipends to several college summer interns.

Stay Informed and Take Action!

Here are just some of the many groups listing ways you can do exactly that:

• Silver Spring Progressive Action

• Civic Action Hub of Maryland

• Indivisible (national)

• Indivisible Montgomery

• Takoma Park Mobilization

• Beautiful Trouble

• Federal Policy Watch

Expect Excellence From Your State Government!

If you need help with a state issue, please contact my office at lorig.charkoudian@house.state.md.us or leave us a message at (410)-841-3423.

Onward!